It is claimed Proud Experiences will be the largest international event for this sector - which is valued at over $211 billion - and will take place at London’s Saatchi Gallery on
June 6-8 this year.
Travel brands and tourist boards already signed up to take part include Belmond, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Corinthia London, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, ME by Melia, Nobu Shoreditch, Peninsula Hotels, Luxury Hotels of the World, Soneva, Visit Malta and Valencia.
International LGBTQ+ focused buyers in attendance will include Zoom Vacations, Out of Office, Frosch, PHD Travel, Bon Vivant and Superviagem.
Buyers and suppliers of travel experiences will meet via a pre-scheduled appointment system.
There will also be a series of workshops, presentations and debates with leading industry figures exploring the challenges faced by same sex couples, bisexual and transgender people when they travel.
Themes will include Asia and emerging markets, the business case for Pride, and marketing to the sector.
Proud delegates are set to receive a welcome from London’s top venues, hotels and clubs and Duke of York Square outside the Saatchi Gallery will also get involved.
“As the world’s biggest creator of travel industry events and exhibitions, we were not surprised when research confirmed that it’s time to pay attention to LGBTQ+ markets as they grow exponentially every year.
“Developing this first event which will take place in London, Proud Experiences will bring out the issues, opportunities, solutions and debates that surrounds this demanding sector,” said show director Gareth Baguley.
He added: “We hope this show will break down the barriers that sometimes make it difficult to ask those all important questions about LGBTQ+ travel.
“By bringing the world’s biggest tourism brands, destinations, products and services together with highly qualified buyers from the biggest source markets around the world – not only do we plan to provide an environment to do great business but to help this burgeoning industry mature even future.”